James McCann, the former Tesco and Carrefour executive, has joined Dutch grocer Ahold as its Chief Commercial & Development Officer. McCann will start in his newly created role this September.

GENERAL MERCHANDISE

Former Tesco executive joins Ahold

1 July 2011 | by The Retail Bulletin

James McCann, the former Tesco and Carrefour executive, has joined Dutch grocer Ahold as its Chief Commercial & Development Officer. McCann will start in his newly created role this September.

Ahold said that McCann will focus on developing new and innovative ways to serve customer needs, build customer loyalty and broaden the company's offering. He will also be responsible for leading Ahold’s e-commerce initiatives and will strengthen the company’s online business globally. In addition, he will play a key role in expanding the company’s operations in new markets, Ahold said.

"We are delighted to have a retailer like James joining our Corporate Executive Board," said Dick Boer, Ahold CEO. "James has an impressive background of working in leading roles for a number of international retailers in various countries. His experience in developing businesses in different markets, and his knowledge in e-commerce, building customer relationships and strengthening loyalty, will help us accelerate our initiatives in these key growth areas for our business. James will work closely with our Chief Operating Officers for Ahold Europe and Ahold USA," Boer said.

McCann’s first retail role was at Sainsbury’s as Commercial Director. He then moved to Tesco where he worked from 2002 until 2009 as COO for Poland, as well as national head of Tesco in Malaysia and Hungary. From February 2010 to May 2011, he was Executive Director for Carrefour France and a member of Carrefour’s Group Executive Board.

Ahold said its Supervisory Board would nominate McCann for appointment to Ahold’s Corporate Executive Board at its Annual General Meeting of Shareholders on April 17, 2012. Until that time, McCann will be an acting member of the Corporate Executive Board.

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